What You Can Do to Help
Prevent Teen
Prescription Drug Abuse

The Valley Substance Abuse Action Council (VSAAC) is part of a new initiative inviting all adults to become a Teen Influencer. The fastest growing drugs of abuse, for all ages, are prescription medications. The project aims to educate adults about how they can influence teens to stay clear of prescription medications.
• Learn about teen prescription drug abuse and the dangers to teens
• Discover how you can play a role in helping teens understand and avoid the risks
• Share what you learn with other teen influencers- parents, teachers, coaches, school and community providers-to help raise awareness about the prescription drug abuse problem and mobilize parents, schools, and communities to take action
Consider these facts: 1 in 5 (4.5 million) teens have abused prescription drugs. One in three teens report knowing someone who abuses prescription drugs; and one in three teens surveyed say there is nothing wrong with using prescription drugs once in a while. Every day 2,500 teens abuse a prescription drug for the first time. In the Valley, 9.7% of 11th graders have used pain killers (oxycontin, oxycodone, etc.)that was not prescribed for them. (Survey of Student Needs, 2007).